PEOPLE from across the county will be joining forces for 16 days of action against domestic abuse and sexual violence between Tuesday, November 25 and Wednesday, December 10.

Everyone has a part to play in protecting people against the effects of domestic abuse and sexual violence. The county-wide campaign will encourage people to spot signs of abuse and help everybody to understand what action they can take, as well as the services that are available to support people.

A number of events for the public and professionals will be held throughout the county, backed up by a marketing campaign encouraging people to seek help if they have any doubts that they are in an healthy relationship.

Those supporting the campaign will be asked to display a poster or wear a purple ribbon.

People will also be able to show their support and follow the campaign's activity on Twitter using #glostakeastand.

A new website www.glostakeastand.com will launch at the start of the 16 days of action on Tuesday, November 25 and will include information on all aspects of domestic abuse and sexual violence, including child sexual exploitation, forced marriage, female genital mutilation and honour based violence.

It will also provide links to all the specialist support agencies locally and nationally.

The 16 Days of Action will begin with a healthy relationships pop in event at Imjin Barracks organised by Tewkesbury Borough Council and the Hollie Gazzard Trust between 9am and 2pm on Tuesday, November 25.

Richard Berry, Assistant Chief Constable for Gloucestershire Constabulary, said: "We've all seen in the last year the devastating affects domestic abuse can have so it's really important we all come together as agencies and as a society and say there is no place for it in our communities.

"Domestic abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, psychological or financial and take place between adults, teenagers, children or family members.

"Even if you think you know all there is to know you probably don't so I would urge everyone to support this campaign.

"Tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence are safeguarding issues and safeguarding is a strategic objective for us and we'll be at a range of events to explain all the work we are doing with partners to tackle this issue."

Cllr Paul McLain, cabinet member responsible for safeguarding, said: “Protecting and supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence is an absolute priority for us. It’s critical that victims know that there is support and advice out there.

“We would encourage everyone to get on board with this campaign. Please help us to take a stand against domestic abuse and sexual violence and help protect people who are affected.”

Tewkesbury Borough Council’s Lead Member for Communities Cllr Sue Hillier Richardson said: “We want it to be clear that in Gloucestershire we are taking a stand to promote healthy relationships and raise awareness of domestic abuse, sexual violence and other related issues.

“Our 16 days of action campaign gives us a platform to do this and, in Tewkesbury Borough, we are proud to be working with the Hollie Gazzard Trust on the first event that launches the campaign, which will take place at Innsworth Community Centre on 25 November and where all members of the public are welcome.”

Nick Gazzard, chairman of the Hollie Gazzard Trust, said: “We are delighted to be opening the county 16 days of action at Innsworth Community Centre.

“The Trust is totally committed to helping reduce the amount of Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence across our County and take a zero tolerance approach to this.

“We believe a strategy of prevention and providing education on healthy relationships is crucial to the success of this initiative. We would urge everybody to support the various activities and events that have been arranged and show your support by wearing a purple ribbon.”

A full list of events taking place during the campaign can be found via the homepage of the Gloucestershire Police website www.gloucestershire.police.uk.